Problems of utilitarian approach to language policy in multiculturalism

The organization co-existence of people living in a situation of de facto multiculturalism is a complex problem. Effective language policy, of course, is the most important factor in the stabilization and development of a multicultural society. The state's role in this process is enormous, but many successful examples of deregulation of public policy in other spheres of social life raises the question: is it possible to reduce state intervention in the regulation of the life of a multilingual society? Is the state language policy an adequate mechanism for the harmonization of social space? Examining the implementation of the language policy leads to the fact that it is based on the utilitarian philosophical and ethical component, which includes two main elements: a certain interpretation of the good and rule to increase goods. Because of these reasons, it requires the active role of the state in the implementation of the language policy as well. However, a critical look at this ethical and philosophical positions is conclude to are fundamental difficulties in determining the good, as well as its principle of maximization. Consequently, the role of state in the implementation of language policy at least exaggerated. For example, we can define the concept of good in several ways, but none of which can not be considered satisfactory. In fact, the perfect form of such a determination requires the ability to make a rational choice when you are try to define a particular good. However, to say unequivocally which of the actions taken or events is good for the individual and society is impossible. Consequently, in case of language policy is impossible to determine what form of organization of linguistic diversity promote the public good. The principle of maximization of goods is also in doubt. If we accept that there is no universal concept of good for the whole society, the principle of it maximization will be unavoidable in practice infringe the rights of the minority. Using the methodology proposed by John. Rawls, it is possible to conclude that the state needs to remain neutral with respect to any conception of the good, and therefore, must minimally regulate social relations, including in the case of language policy. Thus, because of the analysis of the identified problems we must acknowledge the dominant model of implementation of language policy contradictory, which implies the need to develop an alternative model, involving state deregulation and expansion of individual and collective rights.

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